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Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe


  • Author: Charlotte
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken features tender, juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, then baked in a tangy, sweet, and vibrant glaze made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and savory soy sauce. This dish balances fruity zest with rich flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion entrée.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Glaze

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a flavorful base.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust, which locks in juices and flavor.
  4. Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard until well combined, forming a bright and tangy sauce.
  5. Add the Glaze: Pour the cranberry orange glaze evenly over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet, coating them thoroughly.
  6. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  7. Baste the Chicken: About halfway through baking, spoon some of the glaze over the chicken again to enhance moisture and deepen flavor.
  8. Rest the Chicken: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a more tender bite.
  9. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken before serving for a pop of color and fresh aroma.

Notes

  • Using freshly squeezed orange juice and fresh cranberries elevates the flavor but you can use bottled juice and frozen cranberries if needed.
  • Ensure the skillet used is oven-safe to transition from stovetop to oven without transfer.
  • Check chicken internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and maintain juiciness.
  • For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture.
  • Leftover chicken is great for salads or sandwiches the next day.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: cranberry orange glazed chicken, baked chicken breast, holiday chicken recipe, fruit glaze chicken, healthy chicken dinner